If you visit Lake Titicaca from Peru, you will be able to experience the majesty of this highest navigable lake in the world, located 3,812 meters above sea level. The lake is a sacred place for the extinct Inca civilization and according to legend, it was in this place where the world was created.
Contents
The Floating Islands of the Uros
The Uros are an indigenous community that lives on floating islands built from reeds, an aquatic plant that grows in the lake.
They are irregular in shape and measure approximately 20 meters long and 10 meters wide. It is a great experience, if you decide to visit these very particular islands and be able to sail in reed boats.
Taquile Island
This island is known for its traditional culture and handmade textile crafts. Walking is the best activity you can do in Taquile because it is a charming place where you only come across the townspeople who dress in their rich traditional costumes and… with some sheep. You can tour the island to enjoy beautiful views of the lake and learn about the life and culture of the local inhabitants.
Amantani Island
It is inhabited by communities dedicated to the cultivation of potatoes, corn, goose, quinoa, broad beans and peas, as well as the manufacture of textiles and stone carvings.
Among its natural attractions are two viewpoints at the highest point, from where you can see the entire lake. It is also possible to visit pre-Hispanic sites, ceremonial centers and a mummy cemetery.
Capachica Peninsula
It is located at the southern end of Lake Titicaca, in the Puno region. It is an area of great natural beauty, with impressive landscapes and a rich local culture. The Capachica peninsula is inhabited by several peasant communities that maintain their ancestral traditions, such as agriculture, fishing and textile crafts. The inhabitants of the peninsula speak mainly Quechua and Aymara, and many of them wear typical costumes of the area. It is known for its beaches and crystal clear waters, which are ideal for fishing, kayaking and swimming. It is also a popular place for bird watching, as several species endemic to the area can be found. In addition, on the Capachica peninsula you can visit several places of tourist interest, such as the church of Santa María de la Asunción, which is considered one of the oldest churches in the region, and the ruins of Tiahuanaco, an ancient pre-Columbian city that dates back more than 1,500 years.
The city of Puno
Puno is the base from which to visit the lake and its islands if you do it from Peru. Puno is known as the folk capital of Peru and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its rich culture.
In the city you can visit museums and art galleries, as well as participate in festivals and cultural celebrations. We especially recommend enjoying the panoramic views of Lake Titicaca from viewpoints such as Mirador Titicaca and taking a boat ride on the lake visiting Inca archaeological sites.
Furthermore, the city is home to a people proud of their history and culture. That identity is reflected in its gastronomy, in its crafts, in its vibrant dances and rituals, which reach their climax in the annual festival of the Virgin of Candelaria, which is celebrated in February.
We told you that Puno is the ideal base to visit the places of interest on the lake and it is also the ideal base if you want to go to Bolivia.
These are just some of the popular tourist attractions on Lake Titicaca in Peru. There are many more options available to visitors, depending on their interests and preferences.
